Kohli’s innings especially would have caused a number of fans to breathe a huge sigh of relief, as the batsman crossed 40 for the first time in an International-level match on English soil this tour. Shikhar Dhawan also looked good in his brief stay at the crease, but Rahane’s innings was very reassuring and provided some much-needed stability at the top.

Rayudu’s unbeaten 64, in partnership with Raina’s 42, saw India through to what turned out to be an effortless victory set up by their spinners led by Ravichandran Ashwin (3 for 39). Rayudu also took his maiden wicket in ODIs, as he enjoyed an excellent match all-round. Raina followed up his terrific ton in the first game with another positive innings.

First Published on August 31, 2014, 12:56 amLast updated on August 31, 2014, 12:56 am